Can Lowering the Price of the GMC Sierra EV Solve Its Issues?
Last year, the GMC Sierra EV made an impression while competing for the Truck of the Year title, but it was only offered in the premium and costly Denali Edition 1 trim. Despite some standout qualities, the nearly $100,000 price tag was a major barrier for many buyers. Now, with the arrival of the 2026 model featuring base Elevation and off-road AT4 versions, it's time to reassess the truck's appeal.
Price and value are critical factors in our Truck of the Year evaluations, and a six-figure price still feels excessive for a pickup. So, does the introduction of a more affordable Sierra EV trim improve its overall value?
While the base Elevation trim starts at a lower price, adding options quickly drives the cost up. GMC reduced the price by removing key features and making them optional. For example, the 2026 Sierra EV comes with three battery choices: the base Elevation includes the smallest Standard battery, with the Extended Range pack as an upgrade option, but the largest Max Range battery remains exclusive to higher trims. Our test model was outfitted with the Extended Range battery.
Additional features such as the MultiPro Midgate (which has some operational quirks), the faster 800-volt charging system (standard is 400-volt), and Super Cruise driver-assist technology are also optional on the Elevation. Equipping all of these along with other packages raised the price from about $65,000 to nearly $86,400.
However, customization options have limits. The Max Range battery, ideal for towing, is locked to pricier trims, as are rear-wheel steering (which greatly enhances handling) and air suspension (which improves ride comfort and adjusts ground clearance). These exclusions restrict buyers from building their ideal electric truck in the base trim.
Another notable shortcoming is the absence of a locking rear differential on any Sierra EV variant, including the off-road AT4. Instead, the truck uses brake-based torque vectoring, which underperformed during our tests on sandy terrain. This deficiency raises concerns about the vehicle’s capability in challenging conditions like snow or steep inclines, leading our evaluation team to consider its off-road prowess largely ineffective.
This is especially frustrating given GMC already has an electric drive unit with a virtual rear-wheel locker in the Hummer EV 2X, built on the same platform. Despite this, GMC has chosen not to incorporate that system into the Sierra EV lineup.
On the positive side, Super Cruise continues to impress for everyday driving and while towing heavy loads, such as a 6,900-pound boat and trailer. The cloth interior, which is standard on the base model, looks attractive, and the spacious cabin with numerous power outlets is practical and convenient. Still, when it comes to pure truck functionality, other electric pickups currently outperform the Sierra EV.
This evaluation is part of the 2026 Truck of the Year testing process, where vehicles are judged on efficiency, design, safety, engineering, value, and performance in their intended role. Eligible models are either all-new or significantly updated.
2026 GMC Sierra EV Elevation Specifications
Starting Price: $64,495
Price as Tested: $86,345
Vehicle Layout: Dual motor all-wheel drive, 5-passenger, 4-door electric pickup
Powertrain: Front and rear permanent-magnet motors
Total Output: 645 horsepower
Total Torque: Not specified
